Seriously?!?!?!?!?!

Okay, I have to rant a little bit here so be prepared for some really honest feelings. I have been going on to some of the weightloss support group sites lately to see what's going on with other people and to see how other people deal with issues because of their weightloss surgery. Honestly people, if you're going to "test" your band or your pouch, why did you bother having weightloss surgery??? I am so fed up with reading about people who ate 2 cups of food just to see if they could or pushing the limits of their bands by eating crap. These people are perfect examples of why weightloss surgery doesn't work if you don't change your mindset. Pat says it best, "the surgeons perform weightloss surgery, not labotomies". Amen Pat!!!!

Also, it amazes me that more pre-op patients don't ask questions at the weightloss support groups. You have the perfect opportunity to ask post-ops anything you want yet, most don't ask anything. I know not everyone is comfortable with asking questions in front of such a large group, I really do understand that, however, you're about to have a life-changing surgery, please take advantage of this incredible opportunity. When I had my surgery there was only one other person who also had lapband surgery at the meetings. Last night, there were five of us. Each of us willing and happy to share our experiences whether good or bad. Again, please take advantage of this opportunity!

Finally, preparing for surgery can be overwhelming and can cause a lot of anxiety. There are a lot of unknowns and what-ifs that you are faced with. My best piece of advice is to take the time to talk to your surgeon about the medical part. When I had my first pre-op visit with Dr. K I brought a list of questions. He took the time to answer each and every one of them. This is your opportunity and your life. The surgeons are happy to answer your questions, they want you to be as prepared as possible.

Well, I think that sums up my rant for tonight. I am not perfect but I have learned so much in the past two years. I am always happy to answer questions or to provide support to any one who wants it. Thanks for listening!!!

Warm regards,
Jenn

Update...

I met with Dr. Benedetto earlier today to review the results of my endoscopy and to discuss my options. My band definitely has to be removed. I asked him if I would be a canidate for a revision over to a bypass and he really felt like I wouldn't be. I respect his honesty and although I was initially disappointed I have to agree. There's a reason why I had lapband surgery two years ago instead of a bypass. I am just a little nervous about having another band put in after having so many issues the first time around. The reality is I know I can't do this on my own. Without the band I will certainly regain all of the weight I have lost plus more.

The good news in all of this is that I don't have to go through all of the pre-op requirements like the first time. The best part of this is that after two years I have really come a long with my food issues so I am much more prepared for post-op.

I will get a surgery date next week and am looking forward to get this band removed. I am hopeful and optimistic that the larger band will be much better. I will keep you posted!

Have a healthy and happy weekend!

Warmly,
Jenn

Lapband revision....

Alot has happened since my last post. I have been having a really hard time with band on and off since I first had surgery. My latest issues resulted in having an endoscopy. The endoscopy revealed that my band is too small. I will need surgery to have the smaller band removed and a larger band put in it's place. I am meeting with the surgeon on Friday to discuss the surgery and my options.

I'm having mixed feelings about this whole situation. On one hand I'm relieved to know what's going on with me and to know I'm not losing my mind. On the other hand, I can't believe I need another surgery. I really believe this is a fluke and something that just happened. I'm just not sure how I feel about another band. Again I will discuss this on Friday with the surgeon. Speaking of surgeons, it is my understanding that Dr. K is no longer performing weightloss surgery. He was my surgeon and I really liked him. However, I am now seeing Dr, Bennedetto and I think he's great as well. He's really nice and easy to talk to. It was an easy transition to go from Dr. K over to him. The new office is incredible as well. If you haven't seen it, you will be pleasantly surprised. No more tiny waiting room!!!

I will post an update after my appointment on Monday. This is just another example that complications do happens. Weightloss surgery is not the easy way out. Take care and best wishes!!!!

Jenn